System comprising a portable switching device for use with a portable electronic device

ABSTRACT

A lens and/or a view screen of an electronic device having at least one case can be cleaned by wiping the view screen with a cleaning component wherein the cleaning component is configured to selectively couple to the at least one case or some other substrate using a magnetic attractive force. The cleaning devices may have secondary applications such as securing fly fishing lures, activating or deactivating a device having a magnetic switch, or preventing sunglasses from sinking. They may also be manufactured without a cleaning component for use with the secondary applications.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.16/388,691, filed Apr. 18, 2019, which is a continuation of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 16/041,594, filed Jul. 20, 2018, which is acontinuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/852,000, filed Dec.22, 2017, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.15/597,005, filed May 16, 2017, which is a continuation of U.S.application Ser. No. 14/343,665, filed Jul. 14, 2014, which is anational stage entry of PCT application No.: PCT/US2012/049562, filed,Aug. 3, 2012, which claims priority from U.S. Provisional ApplicationSer. No. 61/661,090, filed Jun. 18, 2012, and U.S. ProvisionalApplication Ser. No. 61/619,229, filed Apr. 2, 2012; and U.S.Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/592,344, filed Jan. 30, 2012; andU.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/576,834, filed Dec. 16, 2011;and U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/569,093, filed Dec. 9,2011; and U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/568,031, filed Dec.7, 2011; and U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/561,087, filedNov. 17, 2011; and U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/555,310,filed Nov. 3, 2011; and U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No.61/515,752, filed Aug. 5, 2011, the entire disclosure of which isincorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention

The invention relates to an apparatus for cleaning view screens. Theinvention particularly relates to such an apparatus used with electricaldevices.

2. Background of the Art

Cleaning lenses has long been an issue for the users of devicesemploying them. For example, telescopes, glasses, binoculars, andcameras have long been used and keeping the lenses of such devices cleanhas been the subject of many creative efforts.

More recently, there are new devices to clean. With the advent ofportable electronic devices, it has become common to observe suchdevices being used in many public venues. Such venues include coffeeshops, restaurants, shopping malls, and the like. These devices can beseen in just about any public setting.

Many of the portable electronic devices have a view screen fordisplaying text. Some of these devices also are used for displayingphotographs and in some cases movies. The newest of these devicesdisplay photographs and movies in high definition.

While the view screens are usually rugged, and often covered with aprotective film or screen, they are still subject to becoming dirty.Oils from human skin, environmental liquids and powders, and evenairborne aerosols and dust can collect on a view screen and make itdifficult to use.

Cleaning the view screen of a portable electronic device can beproblematic. It is often not desirable to use materials that are readilyavailable to clean the view screen. For example, paper towels and papernapkins or sometimes composed of materials that may scratch and therebydamage a view screen.

Carrying appropriate cleaning materials is sometimes a problem. Cleaningdevices are sometimes too bulky to be comfortably carried. In their rushto get ready in the morning, it is easy for users of electronic devicesto forget or overlook such preparations for their day.

It would be desirable in the art of manufacturing portable electronicdevices to incorporate into such devices the cleaning apparatus. Itwould also be desirable in the art of providing accessories for portableelectronic devices to provide a cleaning component that can be carriedon an electronic device case.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In one aspect, the invention is a method of cleaning a view screen of anelectronic device having at least one case comprising wiping the viewscreen with a cleaning component wherein the cleaning component isconfigured to selectively couple to the at least one case using amagnetic attractive force.

In another aspect, the invention is a cleaning component for use on anelectronic device view screen comprising a cleaning material covering atleast one surface of a ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic substrate whereinthe cleaning component has a maximum thickness of 1.5 cm.

In still another aspect, the invention is a small electronic devicecomprising a case, a view screen, and internal electronic componentswherein the view screen and internal electronic components are mountedwithin the case and the view screen is externally visible in at leastone configuration of the case. Also, the case has a surface that issubstantially diamagnetic and at least a part of the surface of the casehas been configured to receive a cleaning component wherein: thecleaning component is configured to selectively couple to the at leastone part of the surface of the case that has been configured to receivethe cleaning component; the at least one part of the surface of the casethat has been configured to receive the cleaning component isferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic or overlays a ferromagnetic orferrimagnetic material; and the cleaning component comprises a cleaningmaterial covering at least one surface of a ferromagnetic orferrimagnetic substrate.

Another aspect of the invention is a second case, that functions toprotect an electronic device's primary case, and has a surface that issubstantially diamagnetic and at least a part of the surface of thesecond case has been configured to receive a cleaning component wherein:the cleaning component is configured to selectively couple to the atleast one part of the surface of the second case that has beenconfigured to receive the cleaning component; the at least one part ofthe surface of the second case that has been configured to receive thecleaning component is ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic or overlays aferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic material; and the cleaning componentcomprises a cleaning material covering at least one surface of aferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic substrate.

In still another aspect, the invention is a method of cleaning a viewscreen or a lens for use with a mechanical or non-electronic devicehaving a view screen or a lens comprising wiping the view screen or lenswith a cleaning component wherein the cleaning component is configuredto selectively couple to the at least one part of the mechanical ornon-electrical device using a magnetic attractive force.

In yet another aspect, the invention is a method of cleaning a viewscreen or a lens using a cleaning component wherein the cleaningcomponent is configured to adhere to portable object different from theobject having the view screen or lens.

Another aspect of the invention is employing a cleaning component havinga magnet element to activate or deactivate a magnetic switch.

In still another aspect, the invention is a cleaning component having acleaning surface that is replaceable and held in place within thecleaning component with a tacky adhesive wherein the tacky adhesive isdirectly on the surface of the non-cleaning surface or the tackyadhesive is in the form of a double sided tape.

In yet another aspect, the invention is a cleaning component having anexternal cover for protecting one both sides of a cleaning materialwherein the external cover is reversible so that it may be folded overto expose the cleaning surface.

In still another aspect, the invention is a case for an electronicdevice having a magnetic switch, and in the area of the case over themagnetic switch, a recessed area that functions to facilitate a cleaningcomponent having a magnet moving past the switch in order to activate ordeactivate the switch.

Another aspect of the invention is a cleaning system having at least oneelement being a piece of clothing selected from the group consisting ofa hat, helmet, sweatband or other headgear; a jacket or coat; a shirt ortop; a skirt or pants; and a shoe or boot, wherein the piece of clothingis configured to accept a cleaning component and the cleaning componentis held in place, at least in part, using a magnet.

In yet another aspect, the invention may be cleaning system comprising acleaning component and an area on a device case configured to receivethe cleaning component wherein the area of the device case configured toreceive the cleaning component and the cleaning component may be used asa game wherein the cleaning component is tossed at the device caseconfigured to receive the cleaning component.

In still another aspect, the invention is a stylus configured to receivea cleaning component.

Another aspect of the invention is a cleaning system having at least oneelement being an accessory selected from the group consisting of apurse, wallet, computer case, gun case, glasses strap, gloves, backpack,and a belt, wherein the piece of clothing is configured to accept acleaning component and the cleaning component is held in place, at leastin part, using a magnet.

Yet another aspect of the invention is a cleaning component for use onan electronic device view screen comprising a cleaning material coveringat least one surface of a ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic substratewherein the cleaning component also includes a tab. In one embodiment,the tab is elongated so that it can function as a stand to hold theelectronic device upright.

Another aspect of the invention is a cleaning device having a hardsurface and cleaning surface and including at least one ferromagnetic orferrimagnetic material within the cleaning device wherein the at leastone ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic material may function to actuate apower switch or sensor that is capable of being actuated using a magnet.

Another aspect of the invention is a cleaning device having additionalfunctionality such as a remote control, laser pointer or the like.

In one aspect, the invention is a switching device for use with aportable electronic device having a view screen and at least one switchthat can be activated or de-activated by introducing a magnetic field tothe at least one switch wherein the switching device has at least onemagnet and at least one surface that is non-abrasive to the surface ofthe view screen.

In another aspect, the invention is a switching device for an electronicapparatus that can be activated or deactivated by employing a magnet,the switching device having (i) at least one magnet, (ii) a bodysurrounding the magnet, and (iii) at least one surface configured tocontact any surface of the device, including the view screen; whereinthe surface configured to contact the electronic apparatus isnon-abrasive to the view screen of the apparatus.

In another aspect, the invention is a method of conserving power whenusing a portable electronic device having a view screen and at least oneswitch that can activated or de-activated by introducing a magneticfield to the at least one switch wherein the switching device has atleast one magnet and at least one surface that is non-abrasive to thesurface of the view screen, wherein the method includes using theswitching device to turn the portable electronic device off when theportable electronic device is not in actual use and then on when theportable electronic device is needed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The above and other features and advantages of the present inventionwill become more apparent by describing in detail embodiments thereofwith reference to the attached drawings in which:

FIG. 1A illustrates the top view of an embodiment of a cleaningcomponent;

FIG. 1B illustrate the side view of an embodiment of a cleaningcomponent;

FIG. 2A illustrates the top view of a second embodiment of a cleaningcomponent;

FIG. 2B illustrate the side view of a second embodiment of a cleaningcomponent; and

FIG. 2C illustrates an embodiment similar to that of FIG. 2B, but havinga tab;

FIG. 3 illustrates a computer case configured to receive a cleaningcomponent;

FIG. 4 illustrates a flip type phone case configured to receive acleaning component;

FIG. 5A illustrates a lateral type phone case configured to receive acleaning component;

FIG. 5B illustrates the interaction of two components of the lateraltype phone case configured to receive a cleaning component;

FIG. 6 illustrates a cleaning component with a single offset magnet;

FIG. 7 illustrates a cleaning component having multiple layers;

FIG. 8 illustrates a cleaning component used with a set of binoculars;

FIG. 9 illustrates a cleaning component employing a structural featureto enhance adhesion;

FIG. 10A illustrates a cleaning component employing replaceable cleaningsurface held in place with a tacky adhesive;

FIG. 10B illustrates the cleaning component of FIG. 10B wherein the ackyadhesive is in the form of a double sided tape;

FIG. 11A illustrates a cleaning component employing a revisable cover;

FIG. 11B illustrates a the cleaning component of FIG. 11A where thecleaning surface is not attached to the cover;

FIG. 11C illustrates a the cleaning component of FIG. 11A where thecleaning surface is detachable;

FIG. 12 illustrates a cleaning component including a brush;

FIG. 13A illustrates a cap having a cleaning component located on thebill of the cap;

FIG. 13B illustrates a bottom view of the bill of the cap having acleaning component located on the bill of the cap;

FIG. 13C illustrates a bottom view of the bill of the cap having acleaning component located on the bill of the cap with the cleaningcomponent in place;

FIG. 14A illustrates a cleaning component having a “quick release”capability;

FIG. 14B illustrates a cleaning component having a “quick release”capability with cleaning component in the released state;

FIG. 15 illustrates a stylus for use with a cleaning component;

FIG. 16A illustrates a purse having a cleaning component attachedthereto;

FIG. 16B illustrates an alternative embodiment of the purse having acleaning component attached thereto;

FIG. 17A illustrates a top view of a cleaning component having a tab anda magnetic tab hold-down;

FIG. 17B illustrates a side view of a cleaning component having a taband a magnetic tab hold-down;

FIG. 17C illustrates a side view of a cleaning component having a taband a magnetic tab hold-down with the tab in the raised position;

FIG. 18 illustrates a side view of a cleaning component having a tabwherein the tab is elongated and functions as a stand for an electronicdevice;

FIG. 19A illustrates a top view of a cleaning component which may alsobe a switch for electronic devices having a magnetically activatedswitch or sensor;

FIG. 19B illustrates a side view of a cleaning component which may alsobe a switch for electronic devices having a magnetically activatedswitch or sensor;

FIG. 20 illustrates a cleaning component which may also include apowered devices such as a remote control, laser pointer or the like;

FIG. 21 illustrates a combination cleaner and glasses holder that isalso buoyant; and

FIG. 22 is a photograph illustrating an example of a device asillustrated in FIG. 21 preventing a pair of glasses from sinking;

FIG. 23 is an illustration of an embodiment which may be used to affixobjects to clothing.

FIG. 24 is an illustration of a tablet computer and a switching deviceof the application;

FIG. 25 illustrates a side view of a the switching device in FIG. 24;and

FIG. 26 is a photograph of a trademarked doll used as a component of theswitching device of the disclosure, perched on an APPLE iPad.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

One embodiment of the invention is a method of cleaning a view screen ofan electronic device having at least one case comprising wiping the viewscreen with a cleaning component wherein: the cleaning component isconfigured to selectively couple to the at least one case using amagnetic attractive force. For the purposes of this application, theterm “at least one case” means the primary case used by a manufacturerto hold and protect the individual electronic components of which anelectronic device is composed, but it can also mean a protective casethat functions to protect the primary case. For example, a smartphonegenerally comprises electronics disposed within a rigid shell like case.This would be the primary case. There are available protective cases,often made of leather, rubber, and/or rigid are flexible plastic, thatserve to prevent scratches and blemishes on the primary case andsometimes to impart a bit of shock resistance as well.

The term electronic device means such devices having a view screenincluding, but not limited to cell phones, smartphones, some cameras,some telescopes, some weapons scopes, tablet computers, laptopcomputers, DVD players, and the like. Other examples include computermonitors, televisions, laboratory apparatus (both portable and nonportable), and the like. The method of this application may be used withany electronic device having a view screen.

The term “selectively couple” describes the process wherein a cleaningcomponent of the disclosure is applied to an electronic device andadheres to it because of a magnetic force. In one embodiment of thedisclosure, there is sufficient magnetic force to allow the cleaningcomponent to remain in place despite casual movements of the electronicdevice, but to still be easily removed by a human operator.

Turning to FIGS. 1A and 1B, a top and side view of a round cleaningcomponent (100) are shown. As can be observed, the cleaning component iscovered with a cleaner material (101). Cleaner materials useful with themethod and apparatus of the application include, but are not limited tofabrics. Exemplary fabrics include microfiber cloths, open-end weavemicrofiber cloths, double layer cloths wherein the outer layer whichwould make contact with a view screen is a microfiber cloth, andcombinations thereof. For the purposes of this application, the term“fabrics” is defined to further include non-plant materials such asanimal skins and/or cloth prepared using synthetic materials or animalmaterials. In at least one embodiment, the fabric may be a shammy(a.k.a. chamois). In another preferred embodiment, the cleaning materialmay be the material commonly known in the art as a Micro Shamois Clothsuch as is available from iKlear. Any cleaning material that can be usedto clean a view screen that does not cause excessive wear or abrasionsmay be used with the method and apparatus of the application. Aferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic substrate (102) is also shown.

Turning to FIGS. 2A and 2 B, a side view of the cleaning component, itcan be seen that disposed within the cleaner material (201) is aferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic substrate (202). The ferromagnetic orferrimagnetic substrate may be made of iron or other conventionalferrimagnetic and ferrimagnetic materials. In may also be a composite.Exemplary composites include combinations of aluminum, nickel, andcobalt compound with iron. Such composites may be made by sinteringmetals or by mixing the metallic components with a resin and injectionmolding. Mixtures of iron oxide and ceramic components such as bariumand strontium carbonate may be used to make ceramic magnets for use asthe Ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic substrates useful with theapplication. For the purposes of this application, rare earth magnets,such as but not limited to samarian and neodymium based magnets, areferrimagnetic and ferrimagnetic materials and may be used to prepare theFerromagnetic or ferrimagnetic substrates useful with the application.Any magnetic material or material that is attracted to magnets may beused to prepare the Ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic substrates usefulwith the application.

In another embodiment, the invention is a cleaning component for use onan electronic device view screen comprising a cleaning material coveringat least one surface of a ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic substratewherein the cleaning component has a maximum thickness of 1.5 cm.Turning to FIGS. 2A and 2B, a top and side view of a rectangularcleaning component is shown. In this embodiment, a cleaner material(201) is shown surrounding, on both sides, a ferromagnetic orferrimagnetic substrate (202) that is rectangular in shape.

In some embodiments, the cleaning material is present only on one sideof the substrate. On the other side of the substrate is a differentmaterial that is selected to facilitate movement of the cleaningcomponent on a view screen or to protect from a hostile environment.This material may be textured or it may be one that has a highercoefficient of friction than the cleaning material. In a variation ofthis embodiment, the cleaning component may include a tab that can bepinched to facilitate moving the cleaning component. In still anothervariation, in this latter embodiment, the tab may be constructed suchthat it can lay down in order to lower the profile of the cleaningcomponent. Turning to FIG. 2C, a cleaning component otherwise identicalto that of FIGS. 2A and 2B is shown, except that a tab (203) is shown inthe raised position.

The dimensions of the cleaning component may vary according to itsintended use. For example, one class of small electronic devices uponwhich the cleaning components may be employed is cell phones. The cellphone class includes both cell phones and devices combining cell phonefunctionality with computing power such as the so called smart phones.When the cleaning component will be used with a cell phone, it may havedimensions ranging as follows. Length may range from about 2.1 cm toabout 0.5 cm. In one embodiment, the length may be about 1.7 cm. Widthmay range from 1.9 cm to about 0.5 cm. In one embodiment, the width maybe about 1.7 cm.

Another class of small electronic devices is the so-called tabletcomputers. When the cleaning component will be used with a tabletcomputer, it may have dimensions ranging as follows. Length may rangefrom about 7.5 cm to about 0.6 cm. In one embodiment, the length may beabout 2.5 cm. Width may range from 3 cm to about 0.5 cm. In oneembodiment, the width may be about 2.5 cm.

In embodiments of the disclosure wherein the cleaning component will beemployed on a cell phone or tablet computer, it may be desirable to makethe cleaning component as thin as possible. This is of course thesubject the caveat that the cleaning component is thick enough to beeasily manipulated during the cleaning process. While in someembodiments the cleaning component may be as thin as a sheet of paper,but in most embodiments it will have a thickness of from about 0.5 cm toabout 1 mm.

The overall shape of the cleaning component when used with cell phonesand tablet computers may be round, oval, rectangular, or square. In someembodiments, in order to avoid overlapping with a view screen, thecleaning component may be shaped to fit available space.

The cleaning components of the disclosure may be used with another classof small electronic devices, commonly referred to as laptop computers.They may also be used with televisions, laboratory instruments, and thelike. Because these devices are larger it may be desirable in someembodiments to increase the dimensions of the cleaning component. Forexample, the length of cleaning component used with these devices mayrange from about 10 cm to about 1 cm. The optimum length may range fromabout five cm to about 8 cm. The width may range from about 0.5 cm toabout 5 cm. The optimum width may be from about 0.5 to about 5 cm.Similar to the other classes, the cleaning component may be as thin as asheet of paper, but in most embodiments it will have a thickness of fromabout 0.5 cm to about 1 mm.

For the larger devices, shape is generally not as critical. There areoften larger areas to which the cleaning component can be coupled. Forthese applications, it is often desirable to make the cleaning componentrectangular in shape. Still, other shapes would be within the scope ofthe claims of this application.

Another embodiment of the application invention is a small electronicdevice comprising a case, a view screen, and internal electroniccomponents wherein the view screen and internal electronic componentsare mounted within the case. In this embodiment, the view screen isexternally visible in at least one configuration of the case and thecase has a surface that is substantially diamagnetic. At least a part ofthe surface of the case has been configured to receive a cleaningcomponent. Further, the cleaning component is configured to selectivelycouple to the at least one part of the surface of the case that has beenconfigured to receive the cleaning component; the at least one part ofthe surface of the case that has been configured to receive the cleaningcomponent is ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic or overlays a ferromagneticor ferrimagnetic material; and the cleaning component comprises acleaning material covering at least one surface of a ferromagnetic orferrimagnetic substrate.

It may be desirable, in some applications, to make the cleaningcomponents such that they have beveled edges. Such components could beparticularly useful when coupled with devices having a case configuredto accept the cleaning component wherein there is a ridge configured toaccept the beveled edge to more securely hold it in place.

Some electronic devices have view screens that are always visible.Exemplary of this are some cell phones and tablet computers that do nothave covers. Other devices such as laptops have view screens that may beseen only when the cover is lifted.

In embodiments of the disclosure where a case has been configured toreceive a cleaning component, it may be so configured in several ways.In one embodiment, such a case is configured by placing a ferromagneticor ferrimagnetic material onto the surface of the case where thecleaning component is received. In another embodiment, the case isprepared such that the case itself is composed of a ferromagnetic orferrimagnetic material at the point where the cleaning component isreceived. In still another embodiment, the case is prepared by placing aferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic material underneath where the cleaningcomponent is received. Additionally, the case may be fabricated suchthat the cleaning component is received into a groove, slot, or otherindented geometrical shape to lower the profile of the cleaningcomponent to facilitate closing a cover or prevent snagging a cleaningcomponent. Another reason to lower the profile that the cleaningcomponent may be to enhance the aesthetics of the device.

Turning to FIG. 3, the base of a laptop computer (300) is shown. Aboveand to the right of the keyboard (301) is a rectangular indention (302)having dimensions and all three directions that are slightly larger thanthose of a cleaning component (303). In one embodiment of thedisclosure, the cleaning component has a ferromagnetic or ferrimagneticsubstrate that is a permanent magnet. The case, at the base of theinvention, is prepared using a ferromagnetic material.

In employing the method of the disclosure, the cleaning component iscoupled to the base of the laptop computer by placing it within theinvention. The magnetic attractive force between the permanent magnetand the ferromagnetic material holds the cleaning component in place asa laptop computer is moved. The cleaning component is decoupled from thelaptop computer base by lifting it to overcome the magnetic force. Thecleaning component is then placed on the view screen (not shown) and isthen moved across the view screen using one or more fingers. After theview screen has been cleaned, the cleaning component may be recoupled tothe computer base.

Similarly, the method and apparatus of this disclosure may apply to asecond case. In this embodiment, a case constructed to protect theprimary case of a small electronic device may be similarly configured toreceive a cleaning component. Such cases which are sometime manufacturedby 3^(rd) party providers generally serve to protect the finish of theprimary case and/or provide additional impact protection for theelectrical components of the small electronic devices.

In practicing the method of the disclosure, there are three basicembodiments regarding the source of magnetic force used. In oneembodiment, the cleaning component may include a magnet and the case mayinclude an unmagnetized ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic material. In asecond embodiment, the cleaning device may have only an unmagnetizedferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic material and the magnet may be in or onthe case. In the third embodiment, both the cleaning component and thecase may include a magnet.

When a magnet or a ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic material is applied toa case, in one embodiment, it may be adhered using a tacky adhesive. Onesuch embodiment includes using double sided gaffer's tape as the sourceof the tacky adhesive. Any tacky adhesive can be used with the method ofthe application.

In one embodiment, the cleaning component of the application may be usedas a source of advertising. For example, in one embodiment of theapplication, a cleaning component may have imprinted upon it a logo,trademark, slogan, or the like. In another embodiment, a pre-printedsubstrate having a logo or decorative side, and optionally, a secondadhesive side may be used. In some of these embodiments where thesubstrate includes an adhesive, it may be used to secure a magnet to thecleaning component. In another embodiment, the substrate having anadhesive may be free of advertisements and/or decoration.

In this application, the term diamagnetic is used to delineate materialsthat are not ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic. From a practicalperspective, the materials that are paramagnetic have such a weakattraction to magnets that they would not be effective if utilized andthus are to be treated as if they are diamagnetic.

While, generally speaking, the cleaning components are meant to beunitary, in some embodiments, the cleaning material may be removed andreplaced with new cleaning material. Also, the cleaning components maybe configured such that they have a thinner center to allow a user toemploy lateral force to the cleaning component to more easily slide itacross the surface of a view screen. In some embodiments, the cleaningcomponent may have a profile such that the cleaning component is thinnerin the middle and near the edge of the cleaning component.

Other embodiments of the invention include those such as are illustratedin FIG. 4. In this embodiment, a flip case and a smart phone 400 isshown. The flip case includes a cover 401, a hinge 403, and a base 404holding the smartphone 405. The cleaning device 402 is held in place bymeans of a magnet (not shown). In one embodiment, the magnet is builtinto the cover. In another embodiment, the magnet is attached to thecover using an adhesive. In still another embodiment, the cover includesa ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic material rather than a magnet.

While many of the cleaning components have a single magnet orferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic substrate, this is not a limitation ofthe application. In some embodiments, it may be desirable to havemultiple magnets in a cleaning component. For Example, at FIG. 5, a casehaving two magnets to hold it closed 500 is shown. This case consists ofa body 504 which functions to hold a smartphone; and a lid having a top501, a side 502, and a hinge 507. Also shown is the cleaning component503 adhering to the inside of the side of the lid. The side is shownagain at 502 a from lateral perspective with the magnets visible 506.The cleaning component 503 a is also shown from a lateral perspective,again showing two magnets 506. The two magnets of the case line up withthe two magnets of the cleaning component in some embodiments to allowfor a more secure fit to the case.

Note that in the embodiments shown in FIG. 5, the magnets are offsetfrom center. The magnets may be placed anywhere within the cleaningcomponent as necessary to facilitate their use with a device. Forexample, in FIG. 6, a cleaning component 602 is shown with a magnet 601offset near the edge of the component. In one example of a method of theapplication, the cleaning component is adhered to the top of a devicehaving a case that closes, such as a laptop computer, with the body ofthe cleaning component rotated down when the case is closed. When thelaptop is opened for use, the body can be rotated up and away from thescreen.

In some embodiments, the cleaning component of the application can becomposed of multiple layers. For example, in one such embodimentillustrated in FIG. 7, a three layer cleaning component may be seen.Therein, a cleaning component having an offset magnet 702 and asdescribed hereinabove is shown. It is sandwiched between two additionallayers (701 & 703) that serve to protect the cleaning layer from ambientconditions that might shorten its useful life. One such environmentcould be one that is dusty such as in a production facility that employssaws or knives to cut dust generating objects. In an alternativeembodiment, there may be multiple cleaning components so that dirty orworn components can be discarded.

In an alternative embodiment, the layers of the cleaning component maybe stitched or otherwise joined with the caveat that at least oneexternal layer will have a magnet or a ferromagnetic or ferrimagneticsubstrate.

The cleaning components of the application may be used with mechanicaland/or non-electrical devices having small view screens, windows, orlens. For example, in one embodiment, a cleaning component may be usedwith a site glass in a chemical manufacturing facility. In anotherembodiment, the cleaning component may be used with a pump to facilitatethe cleaning a window used to make visual inspections of the materialwithin the feed or flow lines. The cleaning components are particularlyuseful with devices having lens.

Devices that have lens include, but are not limited to telescopes,binoculars, eye glasses, and weapon scopes. Turning to FIG. 8, a pair ofbinoculars is shown having eye pieces 801, a body 803, and objectivelens 804. In one embodiment, a cleaning component for the lenses may besecured in place using a magnet directly upon the body of thebinoculars. However, in a preferred embodiment, the cleaning component(804 or 806) is secured to the inside of a lens cap or an eyepiece cap(805 or 807). In such an embodiment, different sized cleaning componentsmay be employed and by placing them under the lens cap, they areprotected from the environment except when in use, thereby extendingtheir use-life.

In one preferred embodiment, a lens cap may be prepared or evenretrofitted to work with the cleaning components of the disclosure bydeploying a magnet on the outside of the lens cap using an adhesive. Inan especially useful embodiment, the magnet serves as the base for atether that terminates in an element useful for attaching the lens capto another object, such as the device to which it is employed to protecta lens.

In an alternative embodiment, the cleaning component may be configuredto adhere to a case for the objects having lens.

While the adhesive may be a tacky adhesive such as already discussedhereinabove, it may also be a permanent adhesive. Such permanentadhesives may be selected from acrylic emulsion adhesives, rubber-basedadhesives, or any other suitable material exhibiting durable bondingqualities.

In a related embodiment, a cleaning component of the invention may besecured to a portable object, such as, but not limited to, a set ofkeys, jacket, other clothing items, jewelry, belts, or other items wornor kept in a pocket, by employing a tether having a first endterminating in form suitable for connecting to, for example the keychain and a second end terminating in a magnet configured to secure acleaning component as describe hereinabove. Two uses for this embodimentwould be the cleaning of glasses and also the cleaning of goggles orother protective eyewear.

In an alternative embodiment, the magnet that was on the tether canattached a clip or other device suitable for affixing the cleaningcomponent to the portable object.

In yet another alternative embodiment, the portable object may bemodified to include a magnet so that the cleaning component can besecured directly to the portable object.

In still another related embodiment, a cleaning component of theapplication can be adhered to a personal accessory such as a wallet,change purse, purse or the like.

The cleaning components may be configured with sufficient structuralintegrality that they have constant or at least resilient shape at themagnet so that they may employed with devices having cases configured toutilize that dimensional stability to increase the security with whichthe cleaning components are adhered to the case. FIG. 9 shows such adevice case 901 having a raised section 902 configured to fit within arecess 904 of a cleaning component 903. The magnets (not shown) arewithin the recessed and raised parts of the case and cleaning component.When joined, the fitting of the raised section and recessed sections addan additional level of security to the magnetic adhesion.

Another embodiment of the disclosure includes incorporating a magnet orferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic material into a rigid or semi rigidconstruction configured to accept a cleaning material as definedhereinabove. In some applications of this embodiment the rigid orsemi-rigid construction can be used to facilitate moving the cleaningmaterial during the process of cleaning.

In addition to their cleaning functionality, the cleaning components ofthe application have a functionality of being able to active magneticswitches on devices having such switches. This is particularly useful insaving battery life as it does not require the cover of such devices tobe closed (the normal mode for activation of such switches). In the useof tablet devices having a magnetic switch, the cleaning components areparticularly useful as the tablet can be put into hibernation mode witha single touch to the cleaning component as compared to the multipletouches required to do the same thing using the touch pad of the tablet.

In one embodiment where a cleaning component of the application isemployed on a tablet using the Apple® Smart Cover, it may be employed onthe outside of the smart cover to function as a handle for more easilymanipulating the cover. Magnets at the bottom of the Smart Cover allowfor a very efficient employment of the cleaning component.

Another embodiment of the cleaning components of the application is onewhere the cleaning component has a cleaning surface that is replaceableand held in place within the cleaning component with a tacky adhesivewherein the tacky adhesive is directly on the surface of thenon-cleaning surface or the tacky adhesive is in the form of a doublesided tape. Turning to FIG. 10A, there is an illustration of anenhancement to any of the other cleaning components discussed herein,wherein a cleaning surface 1001 is held in place on a non-cleaningsurface 1002 using a tacky adhesive 1003. In FIG. 10B, an alternativeembodiment is shown wherein the tacky adhesive is in the form of adouble sided tape 1004.

In still another embodiment, the cleaning component is one having anexternal cover for protecting one or both sides of a cleaning materialwherein the external cover is reversible so that it may be folded overto expose the cleaning surface. Turning to FIG. 11A, a configurationwhere single side of two cleaning surfaces 1102 is protected by anexternal cover 1101. The external cover 1101 includes a hinge 1103 whichmay be a cloth hinge or a mechanical hinge or any other type of hingeknown to those of ordinary skill in the art which would not interferewith the cleaning functionality of the cleaning component. In oneembodiment, the configuration of FIG. 11A when not reversed isparticularly useful for cleaning both sides of a lens such as in a pairof eyeglasses. In some embodiments, the cleaning surfaces may bespecialized with one side of the cleaning surface being more usefulremoving oily materials while the other side is more useful for removingwater based materials from a lens or view screen surface.

The cleaning component may be, in some embodiments, stored in aneyeglasses case configured to receive the cleaning component. In someembodiments, this case may include a magnet and in other embodiments,the case may be prepared using a ferromagnetic or ferrimagneticsubstrate.

Turning to FIG. 11B, in this embodiment the same a single sheet ofcleaning material 1102 is shown where the cleaning material hangs fromthe hinge area of the cleaning component 1103. In either of theseembodiments, the external component may be fully opened and folded backupon itself to serve as a support of the cleaning surface.

Turning to FIG. 11C, still another useful configuration is shown wherethe cleaning material, 1102 is shown to be detachable. In someembodiments, the cleaning material is held in place with a magnet orferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic substrate. If there is a magnet in boththe cleaning material and the cover, in some embodiments, at least oneof the magnets will be on a swivel to facilitate the easy replacement ofthe cleaning material within the cover.

In another embodiment, the cleaning component is a configured to workwith optical devices such as scopes and binoculars wherein the cleaningcomponent includes at least one cleaning surface and brush. Such acleaning component is illustrated in FIG. 12. The body of the cleaningcomponent 1201 has at least one surface that is a cleaning surface andin some embodiments, the entire body is a cleaning surface. The bodyalso acts as a support for a brush 1202. The bristles of the brush maybe employed to remove sand, dust or other materials from a lens or viewscreen. After this removal, the cleaning surfaces may be used to furtherclean the lens or view screen. In one particularly desirable embodiment,the cleaning component is sized to fit within a lens cap and may be heldin place in the lens cap employing an magnet (not shown), In stillanother embodiment, the cleaning component has a cleaning only one sideand the other side a tab or other construction to facilitate holding thecomponent. And, yet another embodiment, there is no cleaning surface andthis configuration functions only as a brush.

In another embodiment, a cleaning system having at least one elementbeing a piece of clothing may be selected from the group consisting of ahat, helmet, sweatband or other headgear; a jacket or coat; a shirt ortop; a skirt or pants; and a shoe or boot, wherein the piece of clothingis configured to accept a cleaning component and the cleaning componentis held in place, at least in part, using a magnet. The magnet may beincorporated using any method known to those of ordinary skill in theart of preparing clothing. Turning to FIG. 13A, a cap 1300 having a bill1301 is shown. In this embodiment, at FIG. 13B, a magnet 1303 is locatedon or in the bill of the hat. FIG. 13C illustrates a cleaning component1304 in place on the bill.

The cleaning components of the application may be placed in any type ofclothing. For example, the cleaning devices may be employed with a boothaving an magnet located on the upper quadrant of the boot. In anotherexample, the magnet may be incorporated into a pocket of a pair oftrousers analogous to a watch pocket within a pocket of times past. Anyemployment of a magnet to secure the cleaning devices of the applicationwithin a piece of clothing is within the scope of the invention.

Turning to FIG. 14, an embodiment of the disclosure is illustrated thatis a quick release cleaning component. In this embodiment, at FIG. 14A,a cleaning component which includes a flexible cover 1400 and a cleaningmaterial 1402 within the flexible cover bends or folds such that twomagnets 1401 at the ends may function to keep it folded when not in use.A third magnet in the middle of the cleaning component serves to secureit to the body of a holding component having index number 1403. Theholding component is composed of the same flexible cover material, atleast in some embodiments, and usually will not include a cleaningmaterial. The holding component will also have magnets 1401 at the ends.FIG. 14B shows this cleaning component engaged upon a substrate 1404,often a key ring, a caribbeaner, or a ring on a jacket or other articleof clothing.

When engaged with the cleaning component, the holding component wrapsaround the substrate and the magnets at the end of the holding componenthold the cleaning component in place employing the magnet at the middleof the cleaning component. The cleaning component can be quickly removedby pulling it with a force sufficient to overcome the attraction of themagnets. As the cleaning component leaves the holding component, themagnets of the holding component will be attracted to each other therebykeeping the holding component wrapped around the substrate.

Turning to FIG. 15, a stylus 1500 is shown that is configured to accepta cleaning component of the disclosure (not shown). In this figure, thestylus may be prepared wherein the entire stylus exterior is a magnet ora substrate that would be attracted to a magnet. In an alternativeembodiment, the stylus includes a clip 1501 or other decorativecomponent which can serve as a substrate to accept and hold a cleaningcomponent. Note that the stylus may also be a writing implement.

Another aspect of the invention is a cleaning system having at least oneelement being an accessory. The accessory may be selected from the groupconsisting of a purse, wallet, computer case, gun case, glasses strap,gloves, backpack, and a belt, wherein the accessory is configured toaccept a cleaning component and the cleaning component is held in place,at least in part, using a magnet. In FIG. 16A, a purse 1600 is shownhaving attached thereto a cleaning component 1601 of the application.The cleaning component is shown attached to the handle 1602 of thepurse. The cleaning component is shown in this illustration as beingattached via a simple loop 1603 from the handle, but it can be attachusing any means known to those of ordinary skill in the art or otherwisealready disclosed herein. For example, the cleaning component may beattached to the pull tab of a zipper. It may also be attached to adecorative ring. On a backpack, it may be attached to a ring which alsoallows for the attachment of a shoulder strap.

Also shown in FIG. 16A is the use of a logo for advertising purposeswherein the logo is clearly visible on the cleaning component.

In FIG. 16B, an alternative embodiment of the purse is shown wherein thecleaning component is attached to a purse having a flap 1604. In thisembodiment, the cleaning component, shown in a cut-away view, isprotected from environmental damage by being between the flap and theside of the purse. In one embodiment, the purse includes a magnet thatthen couples with the magnet of the cleaning component to hold it inplace.

The cleaning components may be enhanced by adding additional features.For example, the cleaning component having a tab illustrated in FIG. 2Cmay be further enhanced by employing a magnetic hold-down. Turning toFIG. 17A, a cleaning component 1700 having a tab 1701 is shown with thetab in the closed position. FIG. 17B is a side view of the same cleaningcomponent. Also shown in this view are the magnet 1702 and cleaningmaterial 1703. It can be seen in this view that the tab has a hinge 1704at its center. In FIG. 17C, the cleaning component is shown with the tabin the raised position and also showing a magnet 1705 within the raisedportion of the tab. The magnet, when the tab is closed, functions tohold the tab down which may prevent the tab from being broken or the tabbeing caught by another object resulting in the cleaning component beingunintentionally removed from its substrate.

In another embodiment featuring a tab, FIG. 18 illustrates an electronicdevice 1801 having a cleaning component 1802 with an elongated tab 1803.The tab is hinged (not shown) so that it may be positioned to act as astand. FIG. 18 illustrates a “portrait” configration, but in anotherembodiment, the stand may be used to hold the device in a “landscape”configuration.

Any cleaning component useful with the application may be prepared usingadditives that may be applied to the cleaning material to make it moresuitable to a specific cleaning job. For example, in some embodiments,the cleaning material may be treated to make it better at removing oilysmudges from a lens while in other embodiments, the cleaning materialmay be modified to make it better for removing hydrophilic dirt orsmudges. In still other embodiments, the cleaning material(s) in acleaning component maybe selected to have part of the component beuseful for oily smudges while another part of the cleaning component ismore useful for hydrophilic dirt or smudges. In embodiments where thecleaning components have more than one cleaning surface, then thecleaning materials and/or additives may be selected so that they areuseful for cleaning both types of smudges/dirt.

In some embodiments of the cleaning components of the application, theuse of magnets or ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic substrates is done withmagnetic orientation utilized to facilitate the removal or replacementof the cleaning component to/or a case or other substrate. For example,when possible it is desirable to employ only a single magnet at acontact/adhesion point where the magnet is affixed using a ferromagneticor ferrimagnetic substrate. This avoids entirely the problem of magneticorientation when returning the cleaning component.

When the strength of two magnets is necessary, then the use of a swivelas described above may be desirable. Other means of mitigating theissues arising with magnetic orientation include but are not limited toprinting a notice on the device (such as “this side up” or configuringthe shape of the cleaning component such that it is obvious which sideof the cleaning component will have an attraction to the magnet fixed onor within the case to which it is being applied.

Any cleaning device of the application may be prepared using anadditional layer that functions to stiffen the cleaning device. As theobjects to be cleaned, be they viewscreens or lens, get larger, it maybe desirable to stiffen the cleaning device. Materials useful as astiffening layer include, but are not limited to plastic, metal, woodand heavy fabrics.

The cleaning components of the disclosure, when prepared with especiallystrong magnets, can have a dual purpose of being a game component. Forexample, in an embodiment where a smart phone is within a case having arecessed area configured to receive a cleaning component, the recessedarea and the cleaning component may be shaped to resemble a ball orother game object. If the cleaning component is tossed accurately, itwill be attached into the recessed area and such a toss could be a goalor score. Any such game is within the scope of the invention.

In order to make the cleaning components more desirable to young users,they may be converted into or incorporated into dolls or toys with thecaveat that the doll or toy is configured to be attached to or perchedupon an electronic device and secured thereon using a magnet. Whiletrademarked and/or copyrighted toys and dolls may be used (subject toproper licensing), even generic toys and dolls may be used, particularlyif they will function to encourage proper maintenance of devices by, atleast in some instances, young users. For example a Mini Beanie Baby™from TY™ may be configured to sit upon a rectangular cleaning componentwherein the cleaning component resembles a “rug.” In another embodiment,covers and cases for electronic devices may be configured to resemble acage or a house and an appropriately selected figure prepared using acleaning material on at least one surface and at least one magnet. Thefigure/cleaning component could be adhered to the cover or case suchthat it appears to be using the cage/house. One example would be the useof a Snoopy™ shaped cleaning component on a case or cover having adoghouse design or shape. In another embodiment, an Angry Bird™ figurecould be configured to sit upon (aka perch) upon the top of a case orcover being secured from falling by the magnet containing within thecleaning component.

In yet another example of employing the cleaning components of theapplication, a cleaning component may be used on the contact surface ofinteractive toys used with electronic devices. The advantage of thisembodiment would be that the toy would simultaneously clean a viewscreen/monitor while providing entertainment. In still anotherembodiment, such devices may be employed for purposes of therapy ratherthan entertainment, or they may be used for both.

The cleaners of the application, in some embodiments, may be preparedfrom wood, plastic or even metal. Turning to FIGS. 19A&B, a combinationswitch and cleaner for an electronic device is shown. The switch/cleanermay be made with, for example, acrylic plastic. In this embodiment, theswitch is shown from above in FIG. 19A where the hard shell is 1901 andthree magnets are enclosed within the shell and have the referencenumber 1902. FIG. 19B is a side view that also shows the cleaningmaterial, 1903.

Cleaners such as those illustrated in FIG. 19 may be employed withdevices that have power switches or sensors that may be actuated using amagnet. In some embodiments, the magnets of these cleaners may serve adual function of both actuating a sensor or switch and holding thecleaner in place when not in use. As devices change, the number andlocation of the magnets could be modified to fit new devices.

In addition to the shape shown in the drawing, the cleaner/switches maybe further modified to facilitate use by incorporating recesses (notshown). In an alternative embodiment, the switch may also have a knob,or “bumps” or surface features that allow for an easier “grip” by thefinger, two fingers, one or two fingers and thumb used to move thecleaner/switch. In some embodiments, a tacky adhesive may even beemployed upon the surface.

Another embodiment of the application is a cleaning device havingadditional functionality such as a remote control, laser pointer or thelike. Turning to FIG. 20, a device 2000 including both a laser pointerand a remote control is shown. This device includes and a case, 2001, abattery 2002, a remote transmitter and/or receiver 2004 and a laser2007. Power is provided to the remote over circuit 2003 and to the laserover circuit 2008. The remote device is controlled using the buttonsshown at 2005. An off/on switch is provided for the laser at 2006 whichactuates a switch on the top of the laser (not shown). This device mayor may not include cleaning capabilities but will include a rare earthmagnet or magnets such as are already disclosed. Ideally, the device maybe deployed with an apparatus with which the additional functionality iscomplementary. For example, a laser pointer and a remote functionalityfor sending signals to a laptop computer to aid in providing visual aidsduring a conference presentation or lecture.

Capabilities that can be included with this embodiment include, but arenot limited to: pointing devices such as a laser pointer; remotefunctionality such as a transmitter that can send mouse inputs tocontrol a presentation; a wife hotspot, and the like. The remotefunction can be particularly useful for volume control, off/onswitching, pause/play, and next/previous slide functionality.

Still other functionality that may be incorporated into such a devicemay include, but not be limited to a flash drive or other solid-staterecording device, earplugs, Bluetooth earplugs, credit card reader,microphone, and the like.

In some embodiments, the devices of the application may be held in placeusing both magnetic and frictional forces. For the purposes of this, theterm frictional forces includes those such as are obtained by includinga ridge on a cleaning device that fits into a slot on a case. Forexample, a smart phone case having a slot which is configured to receivea cleaning device of the application wherein the cleaning device has aridge that fits into that slot. By having both magnetic and frictionalforces in play, such a cleaning device could be employed where it wouldotherwise be likely that the cleaning device would be separated from thesmart phone case.

Also within the scope of the application are embodiments wherein thecleaning material is replaceable. In these embodiments, the cleaningmaterial may be such that it is held in place by an adhesive or thecleaning material may be rigid and fit within a slot configured toreceive it. This is true of any of the previously disclosed embodiments.

The cleaning devices of the application may be prepared using materialthat is foamed or otherwise buoyant. For example, in one application, aglasses holder can be configured to prevent a pair of glasses fromsinking if dropped into water. For Example, in FIG. 21, a cleaningdevice 2100 is shown that has an outside cover 2101 and two cleaningsurfaces within 2104. Within the outside cover are two foamed inserts2103 and two magnets 2102 which function to hold the cover together whenthe cleaning device is not in use. FIG. 22 is a photograph showing sucha device in use. Note that the cleaning device prevents the glasses fromsinking.

Embodiments of the disclosure that are hourglass in shape may beprepared using exceptionally strong magnets. Turning to FIG. 23, theseembodiments, in addition to being useful for cleaning lenses, may alsobe employed to affix items such as glasses, golf tees, flies forfly-fishing and other fish hooks, and the like to clothing and hats. Thedevice 2300 is employed by opening the device and then placing themagnets 2302 on either side of a substrate like the sleeve or pocket ofa shirt. The body of the cleaner, which is flexible, then “snaps” shutas the magnets divided only the thin material of the shirt or hat. Byinserting a pen, pair of glasses or the like before bringing the magnetstogether, the item can be held in place. In one particularly usefulembodiment, two such devices can be applied to the lens of a pair ofglasses thereby protecting the lens from scratches and other perils ofthe environment.

In another embodiment, the cleaners of the application can be applied toa non-magnetic surface using an adhesive, a clamp, an elastic snap ondesign or the like.

The previous embodiment is just one example of how to prepare a buoyantcleaner. Any buoyant material can be employed in the making such anapparatus. For example the cleaning material themselves can beencapsulated around the buoyant core.

Many the features of the illustrated devices of the application can beemployed on other embodiments. For example, the use of buoyant materialsmay be employed with cleaning devices such as those illustrated in FIGS.13 and 14. Also, any of the embodiment of the application withsufficient internal volume, may include a reservoir for a cleaning fluidwhich may be dispensed as a spray or any other method known to those ofordinary skill in the art.

One embodiment of the invention is a switching device for use a portableelectronic device having a view screen, a switch for turning theportable device off and on that can be activated or deactivated by theapplication of a magnetic field and at least one case. The term portableelectronic device means such devices having a view screen including, butnot limited to, tablet computers, laptop computers, portable DVDplayers, and the like.

The switching devices of the application selectively couple with thecase or cases of the portable electronic devices. The term “selectivelycouple” describes the process wherein a switching device of thedisclosure is applied to a portable electronic device and adheres to itbecause of a magnetic force. In one embodiment of the disclosure, thereis sufficient magnetic force to allow the witching device to remain inplace despite casual movements of the portable electronic device, but tostill be easily removed by a human operator.

Turning to FIG. 24, a front view of a portable electronic device, inthis case a table computer (2400) is shown. As can be observed, theswitching device (2401) is selectively coupled to the front of theportable electronic device 2402 outside of the view screen 2403. Themagnetic switch is normally disposed with the portable electronic devicebut is shown here for illustration purposes (2404).

In employing the method of the application, the switching component maybe picked up and, depending upon the model and functionality of themagnetic switch, the switching device is either applied directly to themagnetic switch or applied to either side of the switch and then slidpast it to activate or deactivate the portable electronic device.

Turning to FIG. 25, a side view of the switching device 2401 of FIG. 25may be seen. The body of the switching device has a bottom surface(2501) and a top surface 2502. This particular embodiment has a tab(2503) on the top surface to facilitate its manipulation. Disposedwithin the switching device is a ferromagnetic or ferrimagneticsubstrate (2504). In this embodiment, the bottom of the switching deviceis in contact with portable electronic device and is composed of amaterial that is not abrasive to the portable electronic devicegenerally and the view screen in particular. Except for this limitation,the switching devices may be prepared with any material known to beuseful to those of ordinary skill in the art for such applications.

In some embodiments, the switching device may include a tab that can bepinched to facilitate moving the switching device. In still anothervariation, in this latter embodiment, the tab may be constructed suchthat it can lie down in order to lower the profile of the switchingdevice.

The dimensions of the switching device may vary according to itsintended use. For some embodiments, length may range from about 12.5 cmto about 5 cm. In one embodiment, the length may be about 7 cm. Widthmay range from 1.5 cm to about 4 cm. In one embodiment, the width may beabout 2 cm.

The overall shape of the switching device may be round, oval,rectangular, or square. In some embodiments, in order to avoidoverlapping with a view screen, the switching device may be shaped tofit available space.

Another embodiment of the application invention is a small electronicdevice comprising a case, a view screen, and internal electroniccomponents wherein the view screen and internal electronic componentsare mounted within the case. In this embodiment, the view screen isexternally visible in at least one configuration of the case and thecase has a surface that is substantially diamagnetic. At least a part ofthe surface of the case has been configured to receive a switchingdevice. Further, the switching device is configured to selectivelycouple to the at least one part of the surface of the case that has beenconfigured to receive the switching device; the at least one part of thesurface of the case that has been configured to receive the switchingdevice is ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic or overlays a ferromagnetic orferrimagnetic material.

It may be desirable, in some applications, to make the switching devicessuch that they have beveled edges. Such components could be particularlyuseful when coupled with devices having a case configured to accept theswitching device wherein there is a ridge configured to accept thebeveled edge to more securely hold it in place.

In embodiments of the disclosure where a case has been configured toreceive a switching device, it may be so configured in several ways. Inone embodiment, such a case is configured by placing a ferromagnetic orferrimagnetic material onto the surface of the case where the switchingdevice is received. In another embodiment, the case is prepared suchthat the case itself is composed of a ferromagnetic or ferrimagneticmaterial at the point where the switching device is received. In stillanother embodiment, the case is prepared by placing a ferromagnetic orferrimagnetic material underneath where the switching device isreceived. Additionally, the case may be fabricated such that theswitching device is received into a groove, slot, or other indentedgeometrical shape to lower the profile of the switching device tofacilitate closing a cover or prevent snagging a switching device.Another reason to lower the profile that the switching device may be toenhance the aesthetics of the device.

In employing the method of the disclosure, the switching device iscoupled to the base of, for example, a laptop computer by placing itwithin the invention. The magnetic attractive force between thepermanent magnet and the ferromagnetic material holds the switchingdevice in place as a laptop computer is moved. The switching device isdecoupled from the laptop computer base by lifting it to overcome themagnetic force. The switching device is then placed on the view screen(not shown) and is then moved across the view screen using one or morefingers. After the device has been activated or deactivated, theswitching device may be recoupled to the computer base.

Similarly, the method and apparatus of this disclosure may apply to asecond case. In this embodiment, a case constructed to protect theprimary case of a small electronic device may be similarly configured toreceive a switching device. Such cases which are sometime manufacturedby 3rd party providers generally serve to protect the finish of theprimary case and/or provide additional impact protection for theelectrical components of the small electronic devices.

In practicing the method of the disclosure, there are three basicembodiments regarding the source of magnetic force used. In oneembodiment, the switching device may include a magnet and the case mayinclude an unmagnetized ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic material. In asecond embodiment, the switching device may have only an unmagnetizedferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic material and the magnet may be in or onthe case. In the third embodiment, both the switching device and thecase may include a magnet.

When a magnet or a ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic material is applied toa case, in one embodiment, it may be adhered using a tacky adhesive. Onesuch embodiment includes using double sided gaffer's tape as the sourceof the tacky adhesive. Any tacky adhesive can be used with the method ofthe application.

In one embodiment, the switching device of the application may be usedas a source of advertising. For example, in one embodiment of theapplication, a switching device may have imprinted upon it a logo,trademark, slogan, or the like. In another embodiment, a pre-printedsubstrate having a logo or decorative side, and optionally, a secondadhesive side may be used. In some of these embodiments where thesubstrate includes an adhesive, it may be used to secure a magnet to theswitching device. In another embodiment, the substrate having anadhesive may be free of advertisements and/or decoration.

In this application, the term diamagnetic is used to delineate materialsthat are not ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic. From a practicalperspective, the materials that are paramagnetic have such a weakattraction to magnets that they would not be effective if utilized andthus are to be treated as if they are diamagnetic.

While many of the switching device have a single magnet or ferromagneticor ferrimagnetic substrate, this is not a limitation of the application.In some embodiments, it may be desirable to have multiple magnets in aswitching device. In one example of a method of the application, theswitching device is adhered to the top of a device having a case thatcloses, such as a laptop computer, with the body of the switching devicerotated down when the case is closed. When the laptop is opened for use,the body can be rotated up and away from the screen.

The switching devices have a functionality of being able to activemagnetic switches on devices having such switches. This is particularlyuseful in saving battery life as it does not require the cover of suchdevices to be closed (the normal mode for activation of such switches).In the use of tablet devices having a magnetic switch, the switchingdevices are particularly useful as the tablet can be put intohibernation mode with a single touch to the switching device as comparedto the multiple touches required to do the same thing using the touchpad of the tablet.

In one embodiment where a switching device of the application isemployed on a tablet using the Apple® Smart Cover, it may be employed onthe outside of the smart cover to function as a handle for more easilymanipulating the cover. Magnets at the bottom of the Smart Cover allowfor a very efficient employment of the switching device.

The switching device of the disclosure, when prepared with especiallystrong magnets, can have a dual purpose of being a game component. Forexample, in an embodiment where a smart phone is within a case having arecessed area configured to receive a switching device, the recessedarea and the switching device may be shaped to resemble a ball or othergame object. If the switching device is tossed accurately, it will beattached into the recessed area and such a toss could be a goal orscore. Any such game is within the scope of the invention.

In order to make the switching device more desirable to young users,they may be converted into or incorporated into dolls or toys with thecaveat that the doll or toy is configured to be attached to or perchedupon an electronic device and secured thereon using a magnet. Whiletrademarked toys and dolls, such as Angry Birds™ doll in FIG. 3 may beused, even generic toys and dolls may be used, particularly if they willfunction to encourage proper maintenance of devices by, at least in someinstances, young users. For example a Mini Beanie Baby™ from TY™ may beconfigured to sit upon a rectangular switching device wherein theswitching device resembles a “rug.” In another embodiment, covers andcases for electronic devices may be configured to resemble a cage or ahouse and an appropriately selected figure prepared using a nonabrasivematerial on at least one surface and at least one magnet. Thefigure/switching device could be adhered to the cover or case such thatit appears to be using the cage/house. One example would be the use of aSnoopy™ shaped switching device on a case or cover having a doghousedesign or shape. In another embodiment, a cartoon figure could beconfigured to sit upon (aka perch) upon the top of a case or cover beingsecured from falling by the magnet containing within the switchingdevice.

The switching devices of the application have many advantages ascompared to the conventional switching devices which are generally fixedwithin the covers of cases. The conventional switches often cannot bemoved from side to side and usually block the view screen when employed.The switching devices of the application do not have these limitations.In fact, the switching devices of the application may be perched orattached to the front of a portable electronic device whether the deviceis off or on.

The switching devices of the application do not server as a cover, butthis allows them to be of very low weight compared to the conventionalcovers/switches. Where a conventional case lacks a handle, the switchingdevices of the application may do double duty as a handle when the case,such as the Apple® Smart Case, is in place.

The cleaning materials that are employed in some of the embodiments ofthe application may be removable. For example, the cleaning devicesillustrated in FIGS. 19A and 19B may be prepared with a cleaningmaterial that 1903 that can be removed and replaced. While in someembodiment a tacky adhesive or other adhesive may be employed for thepurpose of holding the cleaning material in place, because the deviceincludes at least one magnet, a cleaning material that has beenimpregnated with iron particles (such as dust of filings) may beemployed so that the magnet also serves to hold the cleaning material inplace. In the alternative a metal foil could be used.

An adhesive can be selected to secure the impregnated metal particles offoil in place. The adhesive, in some embodiments, can function toprotect the metal particles from corrosion as well as to prevent theirescape. It would be desirable that especially metal particles such asiron dust of filings be secured and not escape onto surfaces beingcleaned.

Some of the cleaning devices, such as those illustrated at FIG. 23, havesecondary uses. For example, these devices may also be prepared with asurface made out a material suitable for holding fly fishing lures andother fishhooks. Where such a secondary use has been disclosed, thensuch devices, with or without the cleaning material are also within thescope of the application.

What is claimed is:
 1. A system comprising: a portable switching devicecoupled to a portable electronic device; wherein: the switching deviceand the electronic device are configured to selectively couple to eachother employing magnetic force; the switching device comprises a firstcase; the electronic device comprises a second case and an electroniccircuit that is responsive to the switching device; a first magnet isfully disposed within the electronic device; the electronic devicecomprises at least one element selected from the group consisting ofbeveled edges, ridges, recessed areas, grooves, slots, indented shapes,bumps, raised shapes, and combinations thereof; configured to correspondto complimentary surface elements on the switching device; the portableswitching device is configured to activate, deactivate, or send intohibernation the portable electronic device; the electronic device plays,pauses and/or changes the volume of a remote device; the switchingdevice includes a lid and hinge attaching the lid to the switchingdevice; the lid is recessed to configure to the electronic device; andwhen coupled, the first case functions to protect the second case. 2.The system of claim 1 wherein the switching device has a first lens. 3.The system of claim 1 wherein the electronic device has a second lens.4. The system of claim 1 wherein the lid has a second magnet disposedwithin it.
 5. The system of claim 4 wherein the lid is configured toemploy the second magnet to secure the lid in a closed position.
 6. Thesystem of claim 1 wherein the electronic device has a tab or knobconfigured to be manipulated by an external force.
 7. The system ofclaim 3 wherein the first case is configured to be nonabrasive to thesecond lens.
 8. The system of claim 2 wherein the second case isconfigured to be nonabrasive to the first lens.
 9. The system of claim 1wherein the first magnet is employed in actuating the electroniccircuit.
 10. The system of claim 4 wherein the second or a third magnetis employed in the lid to actuate the electronic circuit.
 11. The systemof claim 1 wherein the electronic device is wireless earplugs.
 12. Thesystem of claim 1 wherein the system further comprises a sensor that canbe activated using a magnet.
 13. The system of claim 5 wherein thesystem further comprises a sensor that can be actuated using a magnet.